Myofascial Trigger Points

Iontophoresis Protocol: Myofascial Trigger Points

Myofascial trigger points have long been misunderstood and overlooked. Dr. Janet Travel] has written and studied extensively on the subject and has offered the most insights on this common source of musculoskeletal pain.

Travell and Simmons have described trigger points as hyperirratable spots usually located within a taut band of skeletal muscle or in the muscle fascia that is activated by a mechanical strain. They are painful on compression and can give rise to characteristic referred pain, tenderness and autonomic discomfort.

Trigger points may develop through acute onset such as trauma, repetitive motions, sports injuries or through a more gradual onset like gait deviations, arthritis and/or progressive postural dysfunction.

Myofascial pain may be referred to one or more muscles depending on the severity and longevity of the injury. The clinician must evaluate the client and determine the trigger point, the stressor or cause, and any other factors contrib­uting to the trigger point pain.